Medical magnets: Placebo-inspired pain relief?

Medical magnets have undeniable powers of attraction, particularly among people seeking alternative ways to ease their arthritis pain. And, indeed, many people say their symptoms improve when they wear these magnets, usually on their wrists. However, according to a new study, such improvements may have more to do with the placebo effect than any true pain-relieving properties. The same holds true for copper bracelets as well, say the researchers.

The study included 45 people age 50 or older who had been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, the most common type of joint problem. During the 16-week study, people wore each of the following devices in random order for four-week stretches: a commercially available magnetic wrist strap; an identical strap with a weaker magnet; a de-magnetized strap; and a copper bracelet. At the start of the study and after each treatment phase, the participants completed questionnaires that measured their pain, stiffness, and how easily they could do everyday tasks.

The study found no difference among the four devices in any of these factors. There was also no difference in how much medication people used while wearing each of the devices.

Overall, the researchers conclude that magnetic wrist straps and copper bracelets don't help osteoarthritis symptoms, and any improvements people get while using these devices are probably due to the placebo effect — that is, people see an improvement because they expect they will.

Timing may also play a role. The researchers point out that many people buy these devices when they are in a lot of pain. Then, when their pain eases over time, they attribute this improvement to the device, although their symptoms would have gotten better anyway.

What you need to know. This is the first well-designed study to look at both magnetic wrist straps and copper bracelets for osteoarthritis symptoms. Although larger and longer-lasting studies need to confirm these findings, the study does provide strong evidence that these devices are more hype than helpful.

This is something to keep in mind if you're considering purchasing one of these devices, which can be quite expensive (for example, the magnetic wrist straps in the study sell for around $50). That said, these devices don't appear to have any major side effects, and may provide some people with something of value: hope. And that can make for a potent placebo.

Sophie Ramsey, patient editor, BMJ Group

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